The Angels waived infielder-designated hitter Shea Hillenbrand on Monday, a disappointment for Los Angeles after signing a $6.5 million, one-year contract in December. The 31-year-old Hillenbrand batted .254 with three homers and 22 RBIs in 53 games with the Angels. His mediocre hitting and the emergence of left fielder Reggie Willits and first baseman Casey Kotchman relegated Hillenbrand to a minor role with the Angels, and he recently asked to be traded, saying he needed to be an everyday player. The Angels designated him for assignment on June 29.